Driver claims he struck utility pole in attempt to avoid accident

Shane Wieter has filed suit against Steven E. Marshall, alleging he was severely injured after a collision.

As he was driving east on East U.S. Route 50 in O'Fallon on Aug. 19, 2007, at 10:50 p.m., Wieter noticed Marshall's vehicle begin to veer toward his, according to the complaint filed Sept. 25 in St. Clair County Circuit Court.

Wieter tried to swerve right to avoid Marshall, but Marshall struck Wieter's driver's side, the suit states.

Wieter claims the collision caused him to skid off U.S. Route 50 and to strike a utility pole.

The accident caused him to suffer severe and permanent injuries to the bones, muscles, nerves, ligaments, intervertebral discs and tendons in his head, neck and back, according to the complaint.

Wieter has also become responsible for medical costs and he has lost wages, the suit states.

He claims Marshall was negligent because he failed to keep his vehicle under control, failed to keep a proper lookout, failed to yield and drove too fast.

Wieter is seeking a judgment in excess of $50,000, plus costs.

William P. Gavin of Gavin Law Firm in Belleville will be representing him.